Leukaemia sufferer prepares for London Marathon (From Watford Observer)

Leukaemia sufferer prepares for London Marathon

1:30pm Tuesday 10th February 2009 in Search Module By Paola Dellafiora

A brave leukaemia sufferer from Abbots Langley will be among 46,500 runners taking part in this year’s Flora London Marathon.

Instead of watching the race from the comfort of his own home, Joe Olival, 40, of Furtherfield, will run 26.2 miles on Sunday, April 26, for Leukaemia CARE – a charity that provides care and support to patients, their families and carers during their illness.

Joe, a manager with Renault UK, is determined to cross the finish line and is training hard in preparation for the big day.

Joe said: “I was only 37 when I was told I had Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia and at the time it turned my whole life upside down but three years on I have learnt to live with my condition and feel more positive than ever, living for today.

“I’ve never run a marathon before in my life, but after watching the race last year, I decided to do something worthwhile, that would help me get fitter and at the same time raise lots of money for a very good cause."

He added: "My illness affected my family and friends as well as me and I wanted to raise money for Leukaemia CARE for this reason – they support everyone affected by the illness, not just the patients.”

After starting running in October last year, he’s now running up to 15 miles in a session.

Joe admits that it's been hard work but is focused on completing the whole 26.2 miles for a charity that is close to his heart.

Joe continued: “I’m feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves as this is the first time ever that I’ve been involved in something that means so much to me, but I’m sure that after completing the race I’ll be walking away with some wonderful moments that I’ll cherish forever.”

Fundraising director at Leukaemia CARE Eve Martin said the charity is "extremely grateful to Joe".

Ms Martin said: “As we receive no Government funding, we rely on donations, volunteers and fundraising events to ensure we can continue our work supporting those affected by blood cancers particularly through our 24-hour care Line."

She added: “This is an amazing event and it will be a day that Joe remembers for the rest of his life. We are delighted that he has chosen to raise money for our charity while fulfilling his dream and we’ll be there on the day to cheer him on.”

Joe is hoping to raise at least £1,500 for the charity and has so far raised around £900. If you would like to help him achieve his target, you can make a secure online donation by visiting www.justgiving.com/joeolival.